Question

Name the gases collected at the anode and cathode.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understand the process – Electrolysis of water:
During the electrolysis of water, an electric current is passed through acidified water to decompose it into its constituent gases.

Step 2: Reactions at the electrodes:
- At the cathode (negative electrode), reduction takes place:
\[ 2H^+ + 2e^- \rightarrow H_2 \]
- So, hydrogen gas (H₂) is collected at the cathode.

- At the anode (positive electrode), oxidation takes place:
\[ 2H_2O \rightarrow O_2 + 4H^+ + 4e^- \]
- So, oxygen gas (O₂) is collected at the anode.

Step 3: Conclusion:
- Gas at the cathode: Hydrogen (H₂)
- Gas at the anode: Oxygen (O₂)